A new DCS: F-16C mini-update from Matt Wagner at Eagle Dynamics on the DCS World forums has confirmed the return of some interesting items to the F-16C roadmap. Those updates include the return of the Sniper XR targeting pod to the line-up. Let’s have a look!
Roadmap gains some items
If we go back to the beginning, DCS: F-16C had an initially ambitious line-up of features planned before Eagle Dynamics had to bring things back to reality a bit. No denying that the feature list is still incredibly impressive but a few thing were dropped including the Sniper XR which has been on and off the list a few times now (if my memory serves me). Now it’s back.
The Sniper XR supposedly has better optical zoom, better stabilization, and better resolution over the ATFLIR and Litening pods. Sounds nice!
Also coming to the list are RWR Handoff Tones and Radar Velocity Search mode. I’m not sure exactly what these features will give us but I’m always encouraged by added features and more complete simulation.
DTC and post early access
The other thing that Matt Wagner talked about is the DTC or data transfer cartridge. If this feature will do what I think it will, we should be able to gain access to more in-depth pre-mission planning that lets us configure the jet and our mission plan. Then the DTC will load in those settings in and you can get on your way quickly.
Here’s what Matt had to say:
Whilst Date Transfer Cartridge (DTC) and Mission Planner is on the Road Map, this is a much larger item that is not just an F-16C item. As such, it will need to come after the module exits Early Access.
Matt Wagner
Still good to know that this is coming. DTC is going to be a game-changer for DCS mission planning when it does finally arrive.
The other interesting thing to note is that we haven’t heard Eagle Dynamics talk much about the F-16 in relation to exiting early access. It’s not too surprising as the F-16 is approaching the F/A-18C project when the same discussion started to happen. Substantial amounts of capability are already in the aircraft now with some items still remaining.
Stormbirds 
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